Frequently Asked Child Support Questions

Can I get Child Support?

Maybe. Child support is calculated by statute and takes into consideration many factors. These factors include: the current custody arrangement custody (how many overnights you spend with the child), income of both parents, insurance costs, and work related child care expenses. The McIlveen Family Law Firm has a free child support calculator. Go check it out!

How much will I get or how much will I have to pay?

Child support is based upon each parent’s gross monthly salary, the number of overnights the child spends with each parent and the needs of the child. Once you have your financial documents together, it would not be hard for an attorney to figure out child support.

Who decides how much Child Support is awarded?

Best case scenario, the parents come to some sort of agreement as to the amount of child support. However, if the parents cannot agree on an amount, the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines will be used to calculate child support.

What if something happens and I can’t afford to pay my child support obligations?

You can ask to have child support modified if there has been change in circumstances. If you know you do not have enough funds to pay child support at its current rate, do not wait until you are behind on payments to see help. Contact an attorney today if you think you cannot afford your child support payments.

Can I calculate the Guidelines Child Support myself?

Yes! To do this you will need to know the monthly income of you and your spouse/ex-spouse and the number of overnights the child spends with you. Bear in mind that the calculator (which can be found on our website listed above) only works for cases involving incomes less than $25,000 per month.

Do I have to pay for college?

No! The Court cannot order you to pay for your child’s college education unless you previously agreed to that.

When does Child Support stop?

Child support ends when your kids turn 18 or graduate from high school, whichever is later. In some cases, child support can last past the age of 20, but usually these cases involve severely handicapped children who cannot care for themselves. Please keep in mind that child support does not automatically end. You must file to terminate your child support payments.